Fun Things to Do This Weekend 15/06/17

From knitting workshops and tree planting to beer and Indian street food, this weekend’s got it all

We-ar is hosting a Slow Sundays knitting workshop. Picture / Supplied

Thursday June 15, 2017

1. Slow Sundays KnittingLocal label We-ar is hosting a Sunday series of mini workshops with a "winter love" theme, aimed at bringing the community together to create something that will bring pleasure and happiness. This weekend's workshop is hosted by Mandy Mee from The Farmer's Daughter who will be teaching attendees how to knit a simple cotton cloth. Knitting kits are provided by We-ar and include needles, cotton yarn, a yarn needle and a knitting pattern. Future workshops include creating a mini-succulent garden with Flora May on July 2 and making a winter immune tonic with Abbie O’Rouke on July 9. Places are limited to 10 people, to book email we-ar@we-ar.com or ph (09) 378 8140.• 122 Ponsonby Rd, Ponsonby, every Sunday until July 9, 2pm-3:30pm

2. Where Shall We Call Home? Positive change is on the tip of a group of local artists' brushes. The newly formed Art for Change group presents its first exhibition at Devonport's Depot Artspace this weekend, a fundraising event in support of refugee resettlement in New Zealand. Where Shall We Call Home? features paintings, photographs and sculptural pieces from more than 50 artists. All works will be for sale, with profits going to the Red Cross and the Auckland Refugee Family Trust. • 28 Clarence Rd, Devonport, Saturday June 17 2pm–5pm; Sunday June 18 11am–3pm

3. Dress for Success Two-Day Winter SaleIf you’re planning to get your shop on this weekend, why not do a little good at the same time? Browse pre-loved clothing and accessories at the Dress for Success Two-Day Winter Sale on Friday and Saturday; all proceeds will go back to this not-for-profit organisation which helps to dress more than a thousand Kiwi women looking for work each year. On Friday clothing will be just $5, while on Saturday you buy either a $30 or $60 bag and fill it with all you can fit. Note that there are no changing rooms, no prams allowed inside and a 30-minute time limit. • 8 Mt Eden Rd, Grafton, Friday June 16, 4.30pm-7.30pm; Saturday June 17, 9am-2pm

4. Matariki Dawn Planetarium ShowSpend your evening under a sky of stars at the Stardome Observatory’s Matariki Dawn production which features Maori myths and stories about Earth, the moon and the Maori New Year beamed across the roof of its 360-degree planetarium. You'll "fly" to Matariki and learn the Maori names of the seven visible stars and about the lunar calendar, then enjoy animated stories of Rangi-nui and Papa-tu-a-nuku and Rona and the moon. Bookings essential.• 670 Manukau Rd, Epsom, Wednesday to Sunday until June 30, 7pm-8pm

5. Planting Days — Auckland Regional ParksSometimes a bit of dirt and fresh air does the world of good. If you’re stuck for a Sunday activity, head outdoors to one of Auckland’s regional parks and help out with its annual tree planting. Trek through native bush and enjoy clifftop views across the Hauraki Gulf before rolling up your city sleeves and joining other volunteers lending a hand. Your efforts will be rewarded with a sausage sizzle, tea and coffee and the feeling of a good deed done.• Various parks across Auckland, visit Ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/events/

Gabs is on at the ASB Showgrounds this weekend. Picture / Supplied

6. GABS FestivalBeer lovers - and amateur brewers - should be heading along to the GABS beer, cider and food festival this weekend at ASB Showgrounds. The Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular will feature the wares of 50 breweries and there will be more than 300 different types of beer and cider available, featuring ingredients as diverse as chilli, salted caramel, cognac and smoked bone marrow. Set amongst food stalls, musicians, entertainment and a "Craft College" beer school, it’s sure to be one heck of a good time.• 217 Greenlane RD West, Epsom. Friday June 16, 6.30pm-11.30pm; Saturday June 17, 12pm-5pm and 6.30pm-11.30pm

8. Moet Party DayIf you need any persuading to put this year’s Moet Party Day on your social calendar, the bespoke champagne cocktail recipe below should do the trick. The Sunset Bellini will be on offer during the event’s Auckland function on Saturday at Rec, Britomart. As well as flowing flutes of champagne, glamorous attendees and live music, guests can also enjoy Moet-inspired dishes.• 38 Customs St East, Britomart, Saturday, June 17, from 9.30pm. Visit Moet.com